Spa Basics
By Anitra Brown, About.com Guide to Spas
Spas began when people started soaking themselves in hot springs thousands of years ago. But the spa world has changed since then. Find out about the different kinds of spas, what treatments they offer, and how to choose the right one for you. And get answers to basic spa questions about etiquette and how much a spa costs.
- Spa Etiquette - Stripping To Tipping
- What Can I Have Done At A Spa?
- Understanding The World of Spas
- Choosing The Right Spa For You
Spa Etiquette - Stripping To Tipping
This is a big area of concern and confusion for people who are new to spas. Relax! There's nothing to worry about. Get answers to all your questions on what to wear to the spa, how much to take off, and how much to tip. Spa-going behavior varies by country. Europe is much more free-wheeling about nudity in co-ed baths and saunas.
- Ten Things Not To Do At the Spa
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Spa Code of Conduct
- Asking For Sensual Massage
What Can I Have Done At A Spa?
Spas range from tiny day spas to sprawling 40-room resort spas with fabulous facilities. The one thing they all have in common is spa treatments like massage, body treatments and facials. Find out more about the kinds of treatments you can get at a spa.
Understanding The World of Spas
A little storefront in a strip mall and world-famous Canyon Ranch both call themselves spas. What is a spa, anyway? Where did they come from? You need to understand the different kinds of spas so you get exactly the spa experience you're looking for.
Choosing The Right Spa For You
Now that you understand more about different types of spas and what happens there, find out more about how to pick the right one for you. Find out what to look for, the advantages of one over another, and what to avoid.
- Top 10 Reasons To Go To A Spa
- What To Look For In Spa
- How To Find A Great Spa Near You
- Enjoying Your Day Spa Experience
- Day Spa Vs. Spa Vacation
- How To Find A Great Destination Spa
- Destination Spa Vs. Resort Spa
- How Safe Is Your Spa?
Get The Most From Your Massage
Massage is the most frequently requested service at a spa. Swedish is usually the best place for a beginner to start. Here's more on the most common types of massage available, what you should do if your massage hurts, and how to choose and communicate with your massage therapist.
- What Does A Massage Feel Like?
- Making The Most Of Your Massage
- Male Or Female Therapist?
- What If My Massage Hurts?
- What Is Swedish Massage?
- What Is Deep Tissue Massage?
- What Is Aromatherapy Massage?
- What Is Couples Massage?
- What Is Hot Stone Massage?
- What Is Pregnancy Massage?
- What Is Chair Massage?
- Ten Interesting Massages To Try
Spa Costs, Deals & Discounts
Get an idea how much it will cost to go to a spa and how to get the best deals.
- How To Find The Best Spa Deals
- What A Spa Vacation Costs
- Saving On Your Spa Vacation
- What A Day Spa Costs
- Saving At The Day Spa
- What A Massage Costs
- Best Budget Destination Spas
- Tips For Buying Spa Gift Certificates
- $50 Spa Treatments During Spa Week
Living The Spa Lifestyle
You can spend a lot of money at the spa, but the real benefits come from taking care of yourself on an ongoing basis. Here you'll find articles on the benefits of regular massage, spa treatments and products you can do and make at home and general wellness and fitness.
